The Monk in the Statue

This was an ancient temple bearing the distinct hallmarks of Buddhist cultivation. Several solemn, treasure-visaged Buddha statues had been carved within, all exceedingly old. One great Buddha statue had had its head blasted away, while others had shattered shoulders. It was clear that this place had also been caught in the fallout of magical arts.

Everything inside the temple was in utter disarray, yet an intact little golden Buddha statue caught Chen Fan's attention.

Chen Fan's Heavenly Eye Treasure Art was still active. He scrutinized the little golden Buddha statue and finally spotted a trace of something unusual. His expression tightened slightly as he said in a deep voice, "This statue is still alive."

Old Yellow Tooth was instantly shocked. "A statue can be alive?"

Chen Fan shook his head faintly and said in a low voice, "It is a kind of art. Sealing a person inside can deceive the eyes and ears."

"There is such an art in this world? One that can even fool late-stage Spirit Refining Stage experts?" Old Yellow Tooth asked, his mouth hanging open in astonishment.

Chen Fan nodded. This art truly was extraordinary. The golden body could conceal every trace of aura and cultivation. If not for his Heavenly Eye Treasure Art, he might very well have passed it by.

"Is there a way to break it open?" Old Yellow Tooth asked as he examined the little golden Buddha statue.

"As long as the art has not been in effect for too long, it can be opened easily," Chen Fan said. A wisp of True Essence gathered in his palm, then landed on the statue's head as he slowly poured True Essence Power into it.

Crack!

Several breaths later, a fissure split across the statue's head. It spread from top to bottom without end,